Abstract

Background

Allergic rhinitis and Asthma are considered as 'one airway disease'. Theophylline is used as a bronchodilator in asthma and also has anti-inflammatory properties. We hypothesize that low dose theophylline in persistent allergic rhinitis improves total nasal symptom score (TNSS).

Methods

We conducted a double-blind, randomised placebo controlled crossover study of Theophylline 200 mgs twice a day for 4 weeks in 21 patients with persistent rhinitis. Primary outcome was change in TNSS. Secondary endpoint measures were differences in peak nasal inspiratory flow,Sino-Nasal Outcome Test. Participants continued with their intra nasal steroids and antihistamines.

Results

There was no significant differences in TNSS, peak nasal inspiratory flow or sino-nasal outcome test between treatment periods but there was a non-significant improvement with Theophylline treatment period

Nasal scrape samples were stained with HDAC2 antibodies and the signals were very week during immunostaining. The intention-to-treat analysis results for both the primary and secondary outcomes were in keeping with the per protocol analysis

Conclusion

Low-dose Theophylline had no significant effects on total nasal symptom scores, rhinosinusitis symptoms questionnaire and nasal patency assessed using peak nasal inspiratory flow. There was a non-significant improvements in the total nasal symptom scores and sino-nasal outcome test.